Ononin alleviates DSS-induced colitis through inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome via triggering mitophagy

Abstract

Background: Ononin, a flavonoid isolated from Astragalus membranaceus root, is the active ingredient of A. membranaceus and has potential anti-inflammatory properties, but its effect on colitis is unclear. Aims: This study aimed to explore the anticolitis effect of Ononin by establishing a colitis model in mice induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). Methods: Male C57BL/6 mice were provided DSS, then treated with Ononin (10, 20, 40 mg/kg) or 5-ASA (40 mg/kg). The colitis symptoms were observed, the disease activity index (DAI) score were recorded daily, and colonic inflammation was evaluted by histopathological scoring. The expression of cytokines, inflammatory mediators, and mitophagy/NLRP3 inflammasome-related proteins were measured. Results: Ononin significantly alleviated weight loss and colon shortening in mice with colitis (p